3. Ray Graves (1960-1969)

There is almost always a coach that is responsible for laying the groundwork at an institution that is later overshadowed by his predecessors. In Gainesville, that coach is Ray Graves.

Though his career is without any national or conference titles, Graves was the first coach in Gators' history to consistently have his teams in the polls and in major bowl games. Graves built the foundation for what Gator Nation is today.

2. Steve Spurrier (1990-2001)

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The “Old Ball Coach” is legendary enough to come up in a Google search with just a general nickname. This isn’t by accident. Before Nick Saban came on the scene, Steve Spurrier had been, perhaps, the best thing going in the SEC. Like Saban shortly after him, Spurrier left the Gators for the NFL. Otherwise, it is very possible the former Gator Heisman winner may still be the coach in Gainesville.

His career at Florida alone qualifies him as a hall of fame coach. Spurrier is an offensive innovator, former Heisman Trophy winner and one of the most entertaining characters in college sports. Though he now only coaches in Gainesville every other year on the visiting sidelines, the Gators owe a lot to this man.

1. Urban Meyer (2005-2010)

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Urban Meyer showed up on the SEC’s doorstep and kicked down the door. He won and won until he decided to walk away. He quickly rebuilt the Florida Gators into one of the premier programs in college football.

Coach Meyer won two crystal footballs, recruited and coached a Heisman Trophy winner and put the Gators back on the map—all in only six short seasons. I'm sure there are a few hard feelings in Gator Nation, but time heals all wounds. Meyer belongs at the top of this list.